Writing Helper #4 – “Stephen King’s Top 20 Rules For Writers”

StoryChesire posted a compilation of insightul and helpful rules by author Stephen King. I love this list because it’s straight to the point without fluff or a sugar-coating. Out of the 2o rules listed, the two that stood out for me were #1 and #10.

I believe it’s human nature to want our work to be great, accepted, and admired. However, the truth is that some will like what we put out and others will give a simple meh. If we can be happy with our work, shouldn’t that be enough? Of course, write for the audience, but should that be the major driving force?

When it comes to first drafts and editing, I’ve been causing myself more stress for the sake of meeting a self-made deadline. I’m working on a first draft of a book now and my goal was to have this done by the end of this month. Well, guess what? It’s not going to happen. Unfortunately, life intervened. So I really appreciate the wisdom of Mr. King on this one.

Of the 20 rules, which stood out to you? What would you add to the list?